Staff photo by Clay Schuldt (L to R) Denny Warta, Dr. Ann Vogel, Tom Schmitz, Kathy Van Roekel, Pat Herzog, John Illikman, Lauri Stark, Mike Boyle and Tom Hayes stand next to the German Park Amphitheater thermometer during a check presentation on Friday.

NEW ULM — As an early Christmas present, the New Ulm Area Foundation (NUAF) gave $25,000 to the German Park Amphitheater project. Friends of German Park were on hand to accept the check in German Park.

John Illikman said the NUAF was built on an endowment in 1987 by Henry Somsen, area philathropist who wanted to see New Ulm prosper. The improvements to the amphitheater fit the pillars of the foundation. It is a project that will keep New Ulm on the map.

The construction is scheduled to begin this spring 2020. Park and Recreation Director said the goal is to finish construction by August 2020.

Fundraising for the amphitheater continues. Currently, $815,000 has been raised for the $1.2 million needed.

Donations may be sent to Park and Recreation office at 122 S. Garden St.